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"With an eye made quiet by the power of harmony, and the deep power of joy, we see into the life of things."

- William Wordsworth

Yes, yes. I know. Just one more thing to do. One more thing to buy. One more message to send. Give yourself a deadline (say, the end of today?!) and then let it go. Give yourself (and everyone else) permission to enjoy the holidays. Laugh. Smile. Stretch. Relax. Just be. (Oddly enough, you may find that it's the only REAL gift people want anyway.)Don't worry about all there is to do. Just take a moment and think of all you HAVE done. See? You deserve a break!Wishing you time to rest, reflect and indulge in the simple joys of the season.See you in January!Anna
Photo credit - stockimages

"The work is the substance. Do the work. Fancy logos and business cards are nice, but they are the first step, not the last. Find out what is needed and give it to them. Produce!"

- Leif Norman

This is part of a series of interviews with people who have been identified as those who "work with love." These are individuals who are daring to create success on their own terms and, in the process, teach us valuable lessons about work and life. They are proof that there are many paths to career satisfaction and happiness. There is a "lessons learned" section at the end of each interview.

Age: 40Occupation: Photographer - Visit leifnorman.netLocation: Winnipeg, ManitobaNumber of years: 5When did the photography bug first hit you?About 1999. I started buying all the used cameras I could find.What is it about this medium that speaks to you most?I like the immediacy of the digital picture and the perceptiveness of the black and white film I was developing in my basement. The camera can see things you don't, even though you are looking right at it.With a background in chemistry, how did you transition from the academic world to one that some would define as solely artistic?The transition was hardly there at all. I was making money with photography before I even graduated. The focus was on photography so it was natural.Do you see them as separate or parallel words? Why?Anything can be parallel if you want them to be. In my case I am using the chemistry knowledge to make photographs in the 1854 style; Calotypes with Silver Nitrate and Gallic Acid. I would take the degree again if I could.In my opinion, you found a way to combine traditional photography and modern perspectives making it more accessible to the viewer of today. How would you describe your work? How do you feel it has evolved over the years?I would describe myself as an archivist. Photographs are historical records and should be made to share. I am also good, I am told, at making the mundane look exciting, which is a good skill when shooting business cocktail parties. The work has evolved to get closer to people over the years. I am less and less shy to talk to strangers and stick a camera in their face. It makes for better pictures.At what point did you realize that you had stumbled upon something that you not only enjoyed, but could potentially earn a living from? How have you been able to monetize your passion?The money came slowly at first. I was embarrassed to ask for it. And then I got more and more gigs and couldn't do it for free anymore. Anyone can monetize what they do so long as they are good at it. People ask for you, and then you will become a professional.During our chat, we agreed that there are a lot of myths about entrepreneurship and small business ownership. What do you believe is the most damaging of these myths?Probably the idea that getting people to "like" your Facebook page does anything at all. Nobody cares, even if they like you. Also, social media has way too much buzz around it. People starting out think that that's all there is to it. The work is the substance. Do the work. Fancy logos and business cards are nice, but they are the first step, not the last. Find out what is needed, and then give it to them. Produce!One of my favorite pieces of advice from you was the need for people to start small, start slow. How did a slower, more organic pace of development position you for sustainable success?I didn't end up over my head in debt. I grew as I could. Photography has very low overhead anyway. For $2000 one can be well on their way to being a fully functioning photographer. It also builds relationships if you go slowly. Communication is the power. It's where the money comes from. Money doesn't come from the Yellow Pages and posters on a pole. Get to know people in an area and find out how to help them. If you give and give, then they will give back to you. Easy. Long-term relationships, especially in Winnipeg, are gold.Looking back, what were some of the best decisions you made? Perhaps without even knowing it at the time, what things helped you get where you are today? What did you get right?Moving slowly and finding out that I hated wedding photography and other genres was the right move. Even taking my chemistry degree right on top of a slowly building reputation was a good idea. Not moving to Montréal or Vancouver was also a good idea. Those cities are too fizzy. The focus and energy is disposable. A lot of money can be made but a lot of money can also be lost. Keep your overhead low.

Tell me about Gladys. Why is she so important?Gladys (above) was an effort to subvert the digital revolution by doing entirely the opposite of what the trend was. The camera was huge, wooden, handmade, and used a 150-year-old way of making photographs. I wanted to be a completist, and know all there was to know about photography, old and new, and the best way to learn was to DO. So she was a learning tool for me too.For more images of Gladys and the Calotypes, visit OctaviusNorthwood.netI love, love, LOVE that you consider yourself the "official photographer" of Winnipeg. A visual historian, if you will, of our city and her culture. How did this view develop? How has it enhance your enjoyment of your work?That's very tongue-in-cheek. L.B. Foote is now considered to have been the official photographer of Winnipeg though he never was, and would probably laughed at the idea, but was everywhere with his camera documenting everything. Now we have an amazing record of Winnipeg people and places from 100 years ago. Maybe in the future I will be that person. The idea really developed after the 100th person said to me "your everywhere!"

Out of your vast collection of photos, do you have a favorite? Why? I do have some favorites, but they fade quickly as I am always making more. This bright and dark surreal carnival imaging in Gimli (above) was an accident. I had the wrong setting on the camera and it overexposed way too much. But the next day I looked at it and I quite liked it because it doesn't look like a photo you would take.Who or what inspires you? Why?I get inspired by looking at the work of other photographers, old and new such as Eugene Atget, Ansel Adamsand Trevor Marczylo. Mostly I am inspired by the idea that I am doing good work for the future by recording and sharing the images of the moment on my website.You did a TED talk earlier this year. What was that experience like for you? In preparing for it, did you find that you uncovered a new perspective on your work?It was horrible, but I would do it again. I did find out that even though I want to be a philosopher like Susan Sontag, I am not. (Leif is far too humble. I witnessed his TED talk from the second row and thought it was brilliant.)If you weren't doing this, what would you be doing? Why?I might be performer and a poet. I like writing but don't have the time. I like to make people laugh.What sacrifices and/or trade-offs do you feel you've made in order to pursue what you love? When it's all said and done, has it been worth it?Yes. I have sacrificed very little. I am lucky to not have made any blunders along the way in it has been entirely worth it. All those dish washing jobs and driving taxi taught me that I needed to do my own thing, and I am.When I approached you about doing this interview I stated that it was because identified you as somebody who "works with love." What does this mean to you?I don't know if I work with love or am passionate about photography. I see it as work. I really like it, but it is work. Hamlet thought the actor was passionate as he played a tragic scene and cried real tears, though it was all memorized from a script. Many people are equally fooled when they see someone like me rushing around with the camera. I do have a lot of energy for it, but I cannot keep up the excitement that I first had when I exposed my first roll of film. That was passion long ago, but now it simply work I enjoy.

I love the good quote. Do you have a favorite you would like to share?Susan Sontag in "On Photography" (Page 64) wrote something which really stuck with me:"The Photographer both loots and preserves, denounces and consecrates."Anything else you want to share?If someone wants to become professional, and just stop now if you don't, then they should read every book on the subject, gather all the tools, befriend those in the field and show up on time.Thank you for giving us lots of great stuff to think about Leif. Wishing you continued success!

So my friends, what have we learned today?

Slow and steady wins the race! It takes time to build a business. A slower, more organic approach (contrary to the modern "get rich quick" mindset) can position you better for long-term success.

Avoid debt! As a Career Professional I have worked with many people over the years who have, unfortunately, come to me after they had spent everything they had (and a lot more they didn't have) on a business they were sure would produce results and easy income overnight. Unnecessary debt will keep you stranded, kill your creativity and will limit your options.

Do the work! There are many things that can make you feel like you're being productive, but are essentially time-wasting distractions that keep you from the real work to be done. (I certainly understand. The distractions are safe. Getting out in with middle of things can be scary, but it's where the real treasures are).

Solve a problem! Get to know people. Build authentic relationships. Found out what their needs are and then solve the problem. Find the right solution to the right problem and you're in business.

Hello Friends! What an amazing, yet brief, summer this has been. I can't believe that fall is already on its way! For once, I decided to take my own advice and just be. Yes, there was plenty of work to do, but I made sure there was a lot of time to go for walks, meander under grand trees, run around the park, eat ice cream and just savour this wonderful season.This small passage from Thoreau's Walden says it best:"There were times I could not afford to sacrifice the bloom of the present moment to any work whether of the head or hands. ...I grew in those seasons like corn in the night, and they were far better than any work of the hands would have been. They were not time subtracted from my life, but so much over and above my usual allowance..."I hope you had a wonderful summer. If it was not all you hoped it would be, take this new approach to delight in fall. I know I'm going to.So much sky gazing and storytelling to do!Have a remarkable week!Sharing the journey,Anna

Whether it's an Artist, Barrista, Freelance Writer, Retail Clerk, Teacher or Small Business Owner, the people I've met who work with a secret joy all have one thing in common - purpose. They do what they do with love, for the love of it. Money is not the driving force. Sure, they need to pay the bills. We all do. The satisfaction they derive from their work, however, has nothing to do with the monetary payback. It's the thrill of the challenge. The chance to put some good out into the world. The opportunity to flex creative muscles, solve problems and remove a small piece of burden from another's day. They choose to see what they do as having meaning and, because of that, work transforms into a meaningful experience.That being said, I thought we should take the time to review a few awesome quotes to inspire us. To let us know that we are not alone. There are more than just a few of us that believe that work has value and can be more than the exchange of time and money. Here we go!Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of the creative effort. - Franklin D. RooseveltI believe you are your work. Don't trade the stuff of your life, time, for nothing more than dollars. That's a rotten bargain.- Rita Mae BrownTrust not what inspires other members of society to choose a career. Trust what inspires you.- The Lazy Person's Guide to SuccessOne must work and dare if one really wants to live.- Vincent van GoghNever work just for money or for power They won't save your soul or help you sleep at night.- Marian Wright EdelmanThe people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and, if they can't find them, make them.- George Bernard ShawThe belief that you can have a meaningful career is the first step to finding one.- Sean Aiken (Author/Creator - One Week Job Project)There is no end. There is no beginning. There is only the infinite passion of life.- Federico FelliniWhat is money? A man is a success if he gets up in the morning and goes to bed at night and in between does what he wants to do.- Bob DylanHard work is painful when life is devoid of purpose. But when you live for something greater than yourself and the gratification of your own ego, then hard work becomes a labor of love.- Steve PavlinaSuccess is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming.- John R. Wooden

The biggest mistake that you can make is to believe that you are working for somebody else. The driving force of a career must come from the individual. Remember: Jobs are owned by the company, you own your career!- Earl Nightingale

There you have it my friends. Wishing you a day filled with inspired action and empowered choices!Sharing the journey,Anna

We choose to go...not because it is easy, but because it is hard. Because that goal will serve to measure and organize the best of our energies and skills. Because that challenge is one we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win.

- John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Since the goal is to provide information and inspiration, I thought I would pause this week so we can take a better look at what we've learned so far. As I collect feedback and prepare to share these stories, I've discovered some major themes when it comes to working with love:

be prepared to work hard (maybe even harder than you've ever worked)

get comfortable with being uncomfortable (you'll have to push yourself to try new things)

recognize that there are no guarantees (it's all on you - make peace with that)

So why would someone choose to do this? Don't we all want an easy ride? NOT. AT. ALL. In fact, I believe the the desire for easy is a myth. As I've stated in the past, boredom is my kryptonite and I don't believe I'm alone. While we don't desire hardship, we do crave challenge. Why? Challenge provides purpose. To work hard for something is to have a purpose to your day and, ultimately, your life. The most miserable people I've come across in my work are the disengaged. You know them. The people who look for ways to put in their time while only contributing the bare minimum. I feel sad for these people. Who wants to spend the precious hours of one's life caring about and contributing to nothing? Just showing up is not enough. It's a waste and, if we're all honest, it feels terrible. Being of value and feeling you matter is essential to your well being. It's no wonder mental health has become such a big issue in the workplace. That, my friends, is a whole other discussion...

If you haven't had a chance to check out any of the interviews, you may want to take a peak at the following:

Making the leap to freelance work and going back to school in your 30's

Have no fear my friends - more stories are on their way. In fact, with so many wonderful stories to tell, there are barely enough hours in the day! The people and the possibilities seem wonderfully endless. With this in mind, I'm confident that one day I'll be sharing your story in this very place.

The above quote is one of my favourites from TEDxManitoba yesterday. In fact, for me, that one quote summed up the entire day. Let me explain...As a child I remember feeling that Winnipeg was, well, quite average. Boring actually. For years I dreamed of the life that was waiting for me outside the confines of lame, old, have-not, prairie province Winnipeg. Toronto, New York, London - this is where the action was. This is where the movers and shakers of the world congregated to make things happen. Winnipeg? Certainly not! Nothing ever happened here. Even the most gifted alchemist would have to take his or her talents elsewhere. I wanted a big life and since, from my perspective, no one ever struck gold in Winnipeg I would certainly have to escape in order to claim my riches. Fast-forward 20 years...It's 8:30 am as I step into the Tom Hendry Warehouse yesterday in, you guessed it, Winnipeg. Within a matter of minutes the story of my city changes before my eyes. There is absolutely nothing average, lame or boring taking place here. The room is electric and the excitement builds as we wait for a day of sharing, inspiration and possibility. In this place the myth is broken. Winnipeg IS a place of movers and shakers. A place where people dream big, create with heart, live with courage and work with love. If anything, our little prairie city is just holding her breath, waiting to see what awesome thing we're going to do next. Quite frankly, I can't wait to show her. I quickly become friends with Marc, a local teacher, who is attending his second TEDxManitoba event. He kindly offers to be my guide for the day, and is so much fun to chat with I can't resist taking him up on his offer. We discuss our work, our families and agree that events like these are much needed in our city. In fact, almost everyone I chat with agrees that we need to put fuel on this fire.I could give you a play by play of every talk, but I won't do that. I think the best way to show my appreciation is to document some of my own learning and insights from the day. Here are a few points to give you a taste of what the day was like:

Aisha Alfa and Ismaila Alfa reminded me of the power of words. Instead of having birthday parties we need to have birthday adventures. A single word changes the rules of the game and injects new life into an idea.

maamaakadendaagozi means you are awesome! Thanks to Winnipeg Educator Jo MacDonald I now know this amazing word.

"We do not deliver babies. We deliver pizza. The word 'birth' is a verb." Midwife Marla Gross gave me lots to consider with those few short statements.

After being shot at on a bus in Mexico Brian Bowman asked "What do you do after the bullets miss you?" Indeed. What matters most? What would you choose to focus on in life if you were given a second chance? How would you contribute?

I really related to Pay Chen's talk as she discussed both the fear and exhilaration of charting your own path. It's definitely something that all freelance workers struggle with. The thing that stuck with me was, "I got tired of waiting for things to happen. I decided to go out and make them happen."

Winnipeg Photographer Leif Norman blew my mind with his enthusiasm for his craft. Made me want to get out my old Pentax K1000 and take some pictures old-school style. He was an awesome reminder of what can happen when you put your heart and soul into something.

I'm confident that most would agree that Ted Geddert's moving talk, in which he detailed the heartache of losing both his father and son on the same day, was unforgettable. Many of us wept as we thought of our children and the daily, simple joys we take for granted. His talk was surprisingly inspiring as he (along with his son Aaron who accompanied him on guitar) used music and gratefulness to transition from pain to joy. His talk will stick with me for years to come. It was just one of many gifts from the day.

There were so many nuggets of awesome that I could go on and on. For those not in the audience, the best way to capture this event is to check out the live stream. I can honestly say that our local event met the TED goal of contributing ideas worth spreading. So what will I do the next time someone asks if anything is happening in this city? I'll put up my hand and proudly say YES! I have a list of great stuff and it just keeps getting longer.Wishing you a day of head-spinning inspiration!Sharing the journey,Anna

"I didn't anticipate how much work one must do to stand out and get hired!"

- Shauna-Jean Kluz

This is part of a series of interviews with people who have been identified as those who "work with love." These are individuals who are daring to create success on their own terms and, in the process, teach us valuable lessons about work and life. They are proof that there are many paths to career satisfaction and happiness. There is a "lessons learned" section at the end of each interview.

When you first told me that you were starting a business focusing on make-up artistry, my initial thought was, “of course!” Knowing you for many years, it seemed so natural. It was, in my mind, a perfect fit. Was it something you had always hoped to pursue or did you just stumble upon a passion and recognize that it could be something more? How did it all begin?

Well thank you for the compliment Anna! How it all began...Well it's a bittersweet story really. My husband and I suffered a tragic loss and, after all the "dust settled" for lack of a better phrase, I took a major inventory of what made me happy. I had always loved the beauty industry, did make-up for friends, etc., so I thought "let's try to do this professionally!" Went back to school, got certified and went from there!

To my knowledge, this is the first time you’ve stepped into the self employment arena. What things have you discovered and/or learned from this experience that you didn’t anticipate when you started?

Yes it is! The first two years I was all over the place, taking whatever job I could to get myself out there. It was madness. I didn't anticipate how much work one must do to stand out and get hired! Once I realized that it was easier. I "pimped" myself out (laughs) and took some jobs I'm not proud of but, at the end of the day, they paid the bills. It was a learning experience for sure!

I think that many people have romantic notions about business ownership, specifically, that it will be easier/less work than their current day job. What would you say to that and what advice would you give to others pursuing self employment?

Having just touched on that, I would definitely say it's not easier by far! You have to pound the pavement, get yourself out there, take all jobs offered and be prepared to do some things for free. Owning a business makes it all on you! So my advice is outline your plan then and get yourself out there!

Like many people I’ve interviewed and worked with over the years, your career hasn’t been a clear path from A to B. That being said, I want to ask you about other jobs you've had. How have those experiences influenced the work you do now? Although the work may have been different, are there common themes/lessons that have helped you in your business? How so?

I certainly went in the complete opposite direction for sure! I was in the field of developmental services, and worked in every position in that world from Education Assistant to Employment Coordinator. The common theme would have to be empathy and the ability to communicate as those are skills that are needed in all fields. A lesson I've learned: don't burn too many bridges!

Are there others in your industry that inspire and/or influence your work?Where to start! I have huge influences in this industry. Too many to name, but I will make this statement: my influences are the stylists, artists, designers, models, etc., that get up everyday to create and make people feel and look their best!

As with any career, no matter how much we love it, there are days and tasks that can just frustrate us. What things have you had to work through, and what things have you discovered on this journey?Oh the drama! Yes, for sure. There are always opportunities for miscommunication with photographers and waiting for models can stress everyone out. There can be drama with brides and wedding parties. The list goes on. Keeping a light attitude and trying to bring out some humour has always worked for me!What sacrifices and/or trade-offs do you feel you’ve made in order to pursue what you love? When all is said and done, has it been worth?

Biggest trade off has been time but, when I think about that answer a bit more, it occurs to me that I use that time to get closer to my goal so it really isn't a sacrifice.

I love that, in addition to being a business owner, you have also decided to become a student again! What are you currently studying and what inspired you to return to school?I am in hair school and I'm the oldest one there! I always wanted to do hair but was discouraged until I finally I gave myself permission to go for what I want! (With great support from my husband of course!)

What have been some of the best and most challenging aspects of running a business and attending school?Scheduling, for sure, as I can often overbook myself. Making a schedule and sticking to it has helped a lot.

Having been a student in your teens, your 20s and now again in your 30s, can you share with me how each experience differed? What advice would you give to someone making the decision to return to school and/or try something new?I have to say I'm a much better student at this point. I think it's because I'm more mature, but also because I am hungry for this - I want it! My advice is you are never to old to jump back to school, so go for it!If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing? Why?You know that's a tough question. Part of me wants to say that I would be working in the previous field I was in, completely miserable, but the other part of me wants to say I would still be searching for something to challenge me and make me happy.

When I approached you about doing this interview, I stated that it was because I had identified you as somebody who “works with love.” What does that mean to you?To me it means being excited to do what you do, spreading joy to the people you are working with and sharing your love of it! Waking up with a sense of calm because you have found your peace and joy.

I love a good quote. Do you have a favorite you would like to share? For sure my favourite is and always will be: “Find a place inside where there's joy, and the joy will burn out the pain.” be- Joseph Campbell

Anything else you want to share? I would love to say thank you so much Anna! I appreciate being asked to share. If anyone would like to connect, feel free to join me on Facebook!Thank you Shauna. Wishing you continued success!

so my friends, what have we learned today?

There are no rules! When it comes to changing careers, learning something new or carving out a new life you only need permission from one person: you! (Although support from others is certainly nice!)

Change is messy at the beginning (yes, even if you are super passionate about your goal) but can provide tons of learning and growth.

When in doubt, hustle! When it comes to running your own show, it's up to you. Hard work alone won't cut it. You have to be willing to put it all out there, seek out opportunities and try new things.

Stay hungry! Learning is a lot more fun when you are an eager, active and engaged participant.

Wishing you a joyful day!Sharing the journey,AnnaAll images are by Charmanie Mallari(Submitted by Shauna-Jean Kluz)